3 Simple Tips on How to Get Rid of Shaving Bumps

Red, itchy or painful, and unsightly bumps after shaving can ruin even the closest of shaves. Try these three simple tips on how to get rid of shaving bumps. When shave bumps appear, one of two things is happening: either each bump is a tiny infection or is an irritated reaction to dryness. In either case, shaving bumps are the result of a reaction, so the most effective way to get rid of shaving bumps is to prevent them. But what to do once they rear their ugly, little heads? Find out how to get rid of shaving bumps, as well as how to prevent them from coming back by using these three tips.

The Best Tips on How to Get Rid of Shaving Bumps

Tip 1: Treat The Cause

To heal the skin and get rid of shaving bumps, you’ll want to address both the dryness and the bacteria causing them. Coconut oil or Argan oil both have antibacterial properties, which makes them a great choice to use for moisturizing shaving bumps. Another easy remedy is to make a solution that combines one part witch hazel with two parts pure aloe vera gel. Witch Hazel is a natural antiseptic that will kill bacteria, while pure aloe moisturizes.

While you shouldn’t shave the area until it has healed completely, in the future, always make sure any bacteria contributing to shaving bumps isn’t coming from your razor by cleaning it regularly. Blades should be free of debris, sharp, and show no signs of rust, mildew, or build up. It’s also important to only shave clean skin so that bacteria lingering on the skin’s surface isn’t entering the pores as hair is removed.

Tip 2: Soothe Irritation

The appearance of shaving bumps is actually the skin’s reaction to one or both of the causes we discussed above. Think of the bumps as a symptom that can be alleviated after the underlying cause is treated. To do this, you’ll want to soothe the skin and bring down the swelling and redness associated with the irritation. Uncoated asprin, crushed and made into a paste with coconut oil can dramatically reduce redness. After applying the paste, let it sit for no more than 10 minutes before rinsing to avoid any irritation caused by the asprin itself.

Another popular remedy for how to get rid of shaving bumps is to dab irritated areas with a cotton ball dipped in a shallow dish of milk. Not only will the cool temperature help to soothe skin, but the fatty acids, vitamins, and enzymes in milk will get to work repairing and gently exfoliating. Creating a mask of one part natural yogurt and one part honey works in much the same way, but with the added benefit of honey’s antibacterial properties. Smooth on the mask and rinse after 15 minutes with lukewarm water.

Tip 3: Prevent Future Breakouts

As previously mentioned, prevention is the biggest key in how to get rid of shaving bumps. Now that you’ve got shaving bumps under control, make sure they never come back. The best chance for prevention starts with properly prepped skin and a clean, sharp blade. After that, reducing friction and dryness are the keys to success.

Make sure each shave begins with clean, exfoliated skin. Cleansing with warm water will help to open pores and remove bacteria. To really open pores, drape the area with a washcloth soaked in warm water for up to ten minutes prior to cleansing. Try using steam as another means to open pores during the cleansing process.

Exfoliating prior to shaving softens the hair and removes dead skin cells that can get in the way of a good, close shave. There are two general types of exfoliation: mechanical and chemical. Examples of chemical exfoliators are alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and salicylic acids used in acne control and anti aging products. These kinds of exfoliators can contribute to irritation. Moreover, they are not ideal for use in your pre-shaving routine, especially for skin prone to shaving bumps. Mechanical exfoliation is the kind done with texture and gentle friction. A good example is a cleanser with micro beads or a soft bristled facial brush. Try making a paste with three tablespoons of fine sea salt and one tablespoon coconut oil for a gentle DIY exfoliator.

Extra Tips

During shaving, use a lubricant, like traditional shaving creams or oils, to minimize friction and soften the hair. Use as few passes with the razor in one area and the lightest pressure that still get the job done. After each pass, rinse debris from the razor so that it is clear for each pass. A razor blunted by debris is more likely to require repetitive strokes with greater pressure. This leads to irritation and shaving bumps. Shaving in the direction of the hair growth is ideal. Shaving against the growth for a close shave can cause ingrown hairs and more irritation. Difficulty getting a close shave in the direction of the hair growth is a sure sign that the razor needs sharpening.

Post shave moisturizing is the final step for preventing shaving bumps from popping up. This is an effective tip on how to get rid of shaving bumps for good. The antiseptic properties in Argan oil and antibacterial properties of coconut oil make either of them ideal for combatting bacteria and dryness. These can lead to shaving bumps. Witch hazel is an astringent that closes pores, keeping bacteria out, but can be drying. Be sure to follow any astringents with an oil, vitamin E, or other moisturizer.

Say goodbye to unsightly and uncomfortable bumps for good. Now you’re armed with these three tips for how to get rid of shaving bumps: treating the cause, soothing irritation, and prevention. Have you had success with any of the remedies or preventions we shared here? What’s your top tip for how to get rid of shaving bumps? Share your story with us!